'Big Bang Theory' Season 8 Release Date Back on Track: Production to Begin After Cast Salary Negotiations Success

CBS' flagship comedy "The Big Bang Theory" is now officially set for production of its forthcoming eighth season, the network announced Tuesday.

Initially scheduled last July 30, the three main cast of the show, Jim Parsons (Sheldon Cooper), Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting (Penny), and Johnny Galecki (Dr. Leonard) had previous salary negotiations with the TV network.

As reported, the three now signed a contract with WBTV giving them $1 million for every episode on BBT inclusive for three seasons. The figure is thrice their former salaries of $350,000.

Considering that seasons 8-10 are said to be comprised of 72 episodes, they could rake in $72 million, plus other rumored production deals and bonuses. The figure could now balloon to an estimated $90 million.

According to Hallels.com, "Big Bang Theory" co-creator and executive producer Chuck Lore spilled some bits of spoilers with regards to the upcoming season at the Critics Association's summer press conference. In the coming season, Penny will be venturing into another career.

"Penny has an interesting arc where she puts acting down," Lorre said. "She gets a shot to be a pharmaceutical rep at Bernadette's (Melissa Rauch) company," he added.

This turn of events is said to create coercion with her husband-to-be Dr. Leonard, as the balance of the relationship could be tipped with them bringing in money on both sides.

Lorre maintains that the fans will see the characters "grow" as they "deal with more things."

"The Big Bang Theory" is scheduled to resume its airing on Sept. 22, 2014.